Capsulectomy in Toronto
What this procedure may address
- Capsular contracture
- Ruptured implant with silicone in the capsule
- Abnormal fluid or mass requiring investigation
- Selected pain or distortion
- Capsule management during implant removal or exchange
What patients need to understand
“En bloc” is an oncologic term, not a cosmetic guarantee. Removal of the implant and capsule in one piece may be impossible or unsafe when the capsule adheres to the ribs or chest wall. The operation should be determined by diagnosis and anatomy.
Assessment and planning
Planning considers symptoms, imaging, implant type, capsule location and whether pathology testing is required. Complete posterior capsule removal can increase bleeding, chest-wall and pneumothorax risk.
Recovery
Recovery depends on the extent of dissection and whether implants are removed, replaced or combined with a lift. Drains may be used.
Individual postoperative instructions take priority over general timelines published online.
Risks and limitations
The proposed benefits must be weighed against risks that include:
- Bleeding or hematoma
- Infection
- Anaesthetic complications
- Poor wound healing or unfavourable scarring
- Asymmetry or contour irregularity
- Altered sensation or numbness
- Persistent pain or swelling
- An unsatisfactory result or need for revision surgery
- Changes in nipple or breast sensation
- Breast asymmetry
- Fat necrosis or delayed wound healing
- Chest-wall or intercostal injury
- Pneumothorax
- Residual capsule when complete removal is unsafe
- Seroma
This list is not exhaustive. The risks relevant to the proposed treatment are discussed during consultation and again before informed consent.
Consultation with Dr. Elahi
A consultation with Dr. Elahi is an assessment of anatomy, goals, alternatives, scars, recovery, risk and whether treatment is appropriate. It does not create an obligation to proceed.